Governor Northam Toasts Rising Sales in Virginia’s Wine Industry

Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Governor Ralph S. Northam
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE · October 15, 2021     Office of the Governor Alena.Yarmosky@governor.virginia.gov   Virginia Wine Marketing Office Annette Boyd Annette.Boyd@virginiawine.org
Governor Northam Toasts Rising Sales in Virginia’s Wine Industry ~ Sales grew 7.4% last year as top ten U.S. wine region celebrates 33rd annual Virginia Wine Month ~
RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today invited Virginia wine lovers from across the Commonwealth to celebrate Virginia Wine Month this October and toast the industry’s growth. Virginia wine sales grew by 7.4 percent for fiscal year 2021.   Virginia consistently ranks within the top ten wine regions in the United States, generating over $1.37 billion in economic impact and more than 8,200 jobs for the Commonwealth. More than 330 wineries call Virginia home.   “Our unique wines reflect the beauty, grace, and hard work of Virginia,” said Governor Northam. “I encourage everyone to celebrate Virginia Wine Month and support the many winemakers who make our Commonwealth an epicenter for world-class wines.”   “With over 300 wineries in the Commonwealth, Virginia’s wine industry continues to be a growing economic sector of agriculture and tourism,” said Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Bettina Ring. “Whether it is during Virginia wine month, celebrating with a Harvest Party, or supporting a local winery, I hope that Virginia wine fans will join me and raise a glass to our expressive and one-of-a-kind wines.”   Virginians are encouraged to host a Harvest Party this weekend to celebrate Virginia-grown food and wine. Virginia’s chefs and winemakers will be highlighted during events hosted in vineyards during the weekend of October 16.   Virginians can also plan their own Harvest Party at home with local-inspired recipes, wine and food pairings, and more—all which can be found here.   Virginia Wine Month celebrates the partnerships and local support that makes Virginia wine flourish through events featuring Virginia wines and local artisanal foods, as well as accommodation packages at luxury inns across the state. Complete Harvest Party event listings and offering details can be found here.   To learn more about the featured restaurants and retail partners, click here   To download the Virginia Wine app, clickhere.   Full Release